AFC Bournemouth have announced that right-back Alex Jimenez will be suspended for their upcoming Premier League match against Fulham this week, as the club investigates his alleged activity on social media. The 21-year-old Spanish defender is accused of messaging an underage girl.
Allegations and Club Response
Screenshots of alleged messages from Jimenez to a 15-year-old girl have been circulating on social media platforms. In the screenshots, Jimenez reportedly acknowledges that the girl is underage but continues to express a desire to meet up and engage in adult activities. Jimenez has not yet commented on the incident.
On Friday, Bournemouth confirmed they are investigating the matter based on the social media posts. The club released a statement: "AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back, Alex Jimenez. The club understands the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated. As a result, Alex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow’s Premier League game against Fulham and the club will be making no further comment at this time."
Jimenez's Background and Career
Jimenez is a product of Real Madrid's La Fabrica academy, having joined at the age of seven. He spent 11 years in the academy, eventually playing for Real Madrid Castilla before being loaned to AC Milan. The Italian club later made the deal permanent, but Real Madrid retained a sell-on fee percentage. In total, Real Madrid earned €14.75 million from his sale after he moved to Bournemouth.
Bournemouth initially loaned Jimenez from AC Milan but have already triggered an option to buy for €18.5 million. Real Madrid had an option to buy him back for €9 million but decided against it. In his first season in the Premier League, Jimenez has made 33 appearances, scoring once and providing one assist.
